How to Tell If You Have a Fever With a Thermometer

A healthy person's body temperature is usually around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, although it can vary by one or two degrees. Fevers can be caused by infection, illness or injury. A thermometer can help you tell if you have a fever and enable you to keep track of your temperature over time. If your temperature is over 101 degrees, you should seek medical attention.

Things You'll Need

• Digital oral thermometer
• Disposable plastic covers

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Instructions

• 1

  Do not eat or drink anything warm or cold for at least 15 minutes before you take your temperature.

• 2

  Put a disposable plastic cover on the tip of the thermometer.

• 3

  Turn on the thermometer by pressing the power button.

• 4

  Put the tip of the thermometer into the back of your mouth, under your tongue and hold it in place.

• 5

  When the thermometer beeps, remove it from your mouth and read the temperature. Record your temperature, if you are keeping track.

• 6

  Remove the plastic cover and throw it away.